Laisse le Bon Temps Rouler!

This past summer Southwest Airlines was having an anniversary sale.  We thought about where we could go and decided it was time to head south and see the Degenharts.  The hard part was that flights couldn't be taken on Friday or Sunday.  Oh well.  We took Cavett out of school and headed to the "Big Easy." 

We had such a great time visiting with our cousins and doing all the touristy things, that we had never done.  Since Cavett was pulled out of school, I tried to make it as educational in every way.  We checked out books from the library on all things Louisiana, Rivers, Wetlands, Mardi Gras, and Cajun culture.  We even learned about column classification while riding on the street car down St. Charles.  We also gave him the old camera and a had a photo scavenger hunt to keep him looking.

For those of you thinking that New Orleans is not a place for kids, think again.  Between the swamp tour, the street musicians and performers, the ferry and street car rides and Mardi Gras world, there is plenty to see and do!  We loved it!  Can't wait to join the Degenharts for a real Mardi Gras Parade one year. 

A Look Back to Look Forward

My sweet little sister turned 30 this week and posted an incredible blog that every mother who has given or will give up a career to stay home should read.  It's a lesson that we both have learned here recently.  I just wish it would have come to me sooner. 

Check it out:  The Degenhart Family

My conviction came from Isaiah of course.

"Does the ax raise itself above the person who swings it,
or the saw boast against the one who uses it?
As if a rod were to wield the person who lifts it up,
or a club brandish the one who is not wood!"  Isaiah 10:15

"You turn things upside down,
as if the potter were thought to be like the clay!
Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it,
“You did not make me”?
Can the pot say to the potter,
“You know nothing”?  Isaiah 29:16

I wish my voice was as good as KK's, but I know that God gives us each special and unique gifts for a purpose.  So for now, I'll continue in my gift that is all GOD's knowing I have nothing to do with any of my success--playing song-games with kids at BSF, filling in for a choir director whose Mom is dying and teaching K-2nd graders how to lead in worship through their hymns of praise.  My success in anything is for His glory.

Thank you, KK for the reminder!

Flying with kids in tow

Today we (both little ones and I) flew to New Orleans to stay with my sister, Karen and her family until Friday. Stephen has, of course gone to Las Vegas for the week. I was a bit nervous about the prospect, but more afraid of getting cabin fever by staying home. I must say though, it went well and it is good to see my sister and how much William has grown in just a month!

We arrived at the parking lot in plenty of time. The bus driver was helpful at attending to our luggage and car seats and stroller and backpacks. Upon arriving at the airport, Cavett was extremely helpful in wearing his backpack and pulling his own suitcase. However, it was quite a scary senario when his suitcase was placed on the conveyor belt and not seen again until we got to baggage claim. Throughout the entire trip it was, "where is my suitcase, mommy?"

After passing through security, we made three passes on the people mover. Quite a fun activity for a 3 year old. Once we arrived at the gate Kendrick fell asleep and Cavett watched a movie. The flight was on time, even early. Both kids were happy and enjoyed our time in the air. The best part was take off. Cavett wanted to pat and say "blast off" just like they do in Little Einsteins. The look on his face when we finally got in the air was priceless. Even though he has been on a plane at least 4 times, this was the first time he really knew what was going on.

Upon a safe landing, we found the suitcases that were "missing" and found KK too. The majority of the rest of the afternoon was spent on a trampoline and swingset in a neighbors backyard. And to listen to Cavett's prayers tonight, I think that spending time with KK in the back yard was the best part. And you know, I think he has it right. Relationships far out-weigh events and experiences. Thanks for the reminder, son.